About me

~ Aleana

“The sense of self and being true defines who you really are. The mistake is made when you lie to yourself trying to hide the truth. If you wear a mask for too long, there will come a time when you can not remove it without removing your face.”

“My name is Aleana, and I am 47. I always felt a bit different when it comes to my gender like most Transgender people. After a great deal of pain and denial, I guess I just got to a point where I had to start living my truth, I was sick of living a facade. You see I have gender Dysphoria, fairly mild compared to some, but sometimes still difficult to deal with nonetheless. I have been going through my Transition for a long time and on Hormone Replacement Therapy for over 24 months now. I’m feeling really positive with the way it’s going. For those who don’t understand Gender Dysphoria is not an illness per-se, it is more like being a guitar that is not tuned right. You can play a song but it is never correct. Once the guitar is in tune the music is divine. The noise of Dysphoria is gone; I am finally able to live true to myself”.

“I have lived in Launceston & Westbury for the last 14 years. I was born in Riverside, California and grew up all over the U.S.A. I moved here when I fell in love with a wonderful woman who lived here in Launceston and we were married for 13 years but we are divorced now. I am a parent of 7 children, with 3 wonderful children who are still living at home with me. Once I realised how scared the kids were, we moved out. I was raised to believe in marriage and that you do everything you can to make it work. But it was an unbearable existence due to the violence. All things aside we are a very happy and successful family. All of my children are exceptional in one form or another and I am proud of all of them.I have a daughter who is studying journalism at Monash University, one who became a nurse, another studying to become a private security contractor for the US government,another who is finishing year 12. Three of my kids have been studying Jujitsu while going to grade school. We as a family have set many goals over the years and we achieve them together. In my past I have been a skier, a grave digger, Performance Car driver,a small business owner,a farmer, artist,radio announcer and more recently, I have worked with people who have disabilities. But the greatest job of all has been being a father. In some ways we are just like any other family. Except I am Transgender…”.

“We moved back to Launceston in 2015, in that time Launceston people have treated me with nothing but respect. But also since I started my transition, I can honestly say I have only ever had 2 minor incidents that were saved with some quick witted comments. A young woman in ugg boots, trackies and a Guns N Roses T shirt on came up to me in Coles and screamed ‘Freak’ in my face to impress her friends. After comparing our clothes and saying “my shoes cost more than your outfit, well if I am a freak, you’re a bogan”. Feeling quite proud of myself I turned into the next aisle, and an older lady was standing there. She had witnessed what had just transpired and gave me a huge big hug and she said some lovely words to me. Another time I was in the elevator near Target and a man walked in and the doors shut. He stared intently at me looking me up and down. I thought to myself “Here we go”. He continued to stare until I cracked and said in a deep voice “ok you got me, I’ve been recognised. I am happy to sign autographs but be quick before the paparazzi turn up’. At that point he went very red in the face, the doors opened and he sprinted out without a word, looking very sheepish at a friend who was with me. Boy did we laugh!!
Then the elevator door opened again, the man popped his head in and said “I promise not to tell anyone, your secrets safe with me”. Hahaha, now that’s funny. I have had some truly fantastic experiences with people as well as with my children going to St. Finn Barrs. They have been absolutely an amazing school, both in dealing with my children and myself. Transition can be very difficult at the hard times, buying clothes, learning makeup, and dealing with people, some things you cannot be prepared for. Like most Transgender people I try to stay calm and easy going. I differ from some Transpeople not wanting to force others while they are on this road of change with me”.

“My children still call me Dad, all 7 of them, my dad still calls me Al, and at times some of my greatest friends still use the wrong pronouns. I feel being approachable helps everyone get to know me and have an easy journey as well. Currently I am a blog writer, not bad for someone with Dyslexia as well. I am proud of my blog which addresses my life and my Transition. I welcome everyone to have a read of my story and life as I know it. If you see me say Hi!

*Thank you to Humans of Launceston for this wonderful about me!

Advertisements

Share this:

Like this:

9 thoughts on “About me”

What a beautiful and lovely “About”!! i can soo relate though i haven’t found courage enough to begin transition. i can hardly wait to read your posts! It does help of course that you write soo wonderfully!

TRANZGENDR is striving to document the true transgender experience, which means we need our readers and members of the transgender community to tell us their story. Many people believe that life is about the peaks and valleys, but we believe it’s about the moments and the people in between. We see the uncelebrated members of the community, as bring truth and defining what truly means to live a life in transition.
TRANZGENDR would also like to know what you think about the world that feels entitled to attack our community. So please feel free to submit your thoughts on current events as well.
Please submit your personal story or essay.

Wow! I am so blessed to have found this site and be re-educated by your path and your thoughts. What an amazing journey you have had and are still in. Quite a ride. I always love the Nissan slogan “Life’s a journey: enjoy the ride.” And I think you are bravely taking it and making it and living it loud and clear. I’m also amazed that you say you are dyslectic because you write so very well too. You are one amazing person. Thank you for allowing me a peek into your amazing life.